When it’s time to move on and how to make it happen
It’s important to remember that almost no one loves their job all the time, but it’s equally important to know the difference between a bad day or even a bad week at work and constantly feeling mentally exhausted and stressed out, or the opposite: bored, apathetic and unfulfilled. You might feel as though you’re not being utilized well, or that your skills would be better used in a job that you’re actually interested in and passionate about. But then there’s also the fear of leaving a job that, even if it makes you unhappy, is at least a stable and reliable source of income. So how can you be sure that you’re ready to make this change, and if you are, what’s the best way to go about it?
Things to be aware of
Like we mentioned above, some key signs that it’s time for you to leave your job and pursue something different is the toll it’s taking on your body. If you’re experiencing chronic exhaustion or depression as a result of your job, or if you wake up with anxiety at the prospect of going to work, then it’s time to make the leap from your current career to something different. The same is true on the opposite end of the spectrum as well. If you no longer care about the work you’re doing, even to the point where the money you’re making simply isn’t worth how unfulfilled you are in your career and you find yourself thinking there must be something more to life than this, then this is also a sign that you should be pursuing something different. So what steps can you take to make it happen, and what pitfalls should you be aware of? The first step is obviously to research. No matter how bad your current job is, you don’t want to leap before you look. Make sure you’re not running off to a career that will make you just as unhappy as you are now. Do your due diligence, look at careers where you can leverage some of your current skills that apply to what you want to do in your new job. Networking is an extremely useful tool in this situation, as it can offer job leads, advice, information, and more. Even if you think don’t have a network – you do! It’s friends, family, and colleagues that can help get you pointed in the right direction.
Final word
The most important thing to remember as you prepare to make this major transition is that you cannot expect it to happen overnight. A career change, from researching, applying, interviewing and finally starting your new career, takes time and patience to reach fruition. But when it does, you’ll find yourself reinvigorated and filled with fresh enthusiasm for your work. If find yourself struggling with work-related anxiety or are looking for counseling and guidance as you grapple with major life changes, reach out to Susan Block, a Coral Springs counselor who is experienced in depression, anxiety, counseling, and more. Call 954-675-1936 today to schedule a consultation.